Should You Install Electric or Manual Opening Glass Rooflights?
When planning a home or office renovation, natural light is often a top priority. One of the best ways to brighten a space and make it feel more open is by installing rooflights. However, when it comes to choosing between electric and manual opening glass rooflights, the decision can be a little more complicated than just picking the option that looks appealing. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, challenges, and considerations for both electric & manual opening glass rooflights, helping you make the best choice for your space.
What Are Glass Rooflights?
Glass rooflights are windows installed in the roof of a building to allow natural light to flood in. These rooflights not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of a room but also improve the energy efficiency of your home by reducing the need for artificial lighting.
The two main types of glass rooflights are electric and manual, and both offer distinct advantages depending on the needs of your home or office.
The Benefits of Electric Opening Glass Rooflights
Electric opening glass rooflights offer an advanced level of convenience and functionality. As the name suggests, these rooflights operate electronically, allowing you to open and close them with the touch of a button or even remotely via smartphone apps in more modern systems.
Ease of Use
One of the key benefits of electric opening glass rooflights is the ease of use. These rooflights can be opened or closed from anywhere in the room, or even while you’re not at home. This is particularly useful for rooms with high ceilings where manually operating a window would be difficult. With electric rooflights, you don’t have to worry about struggling to reach a handle to open or close the window.
Better Ventilation Control
Electric rooflights allow for precise control over ventilation. Many models are equipped with sensors that automatically close the window when it starts raining, making them an excellent choice for areas where unpredictable weather is a concern. This feature prevents water from entering your home and protects your interior spaces from moisture damage.
Increased Energy Efficiency
Some electric rooflights are also equipped with smart technology that helps increase your home’s energy efficiency. These models can automatically open to cool down a room when it gets too hot or close to retain heat during colder weather. By incorporating smart control, electric rooflights can reduce your reliance on air conditioning and heating systems, ultimately lowering your energy bills.
Aesthetics and Luxury
For those looking to add a touch of modernity and luxury to their homes, electric rooflights offer a sleek and seamless design. The automation features provide a futuristic element, and many homeowners find that electric rooflights increase the overall value and appeal of their property.
The Drawbacks of Electric Opening Glass Rooflights
While electric rooflights have their clear advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider before making your decision.
Higher Initial Cost
Electric rooflights tend to be more expensive than manual ones. The cost of the motorized system, sensors, and smart technology can significantly increase the overall price. This is an important factor to weigh, especially if you’re working with a tight budget for your renovation.
Maintenance Concerns
With more moving parts and electronic components, electric rooflights are more prone to malfunctions than manual ones. The motor or sensors could fail, requiring costly repairs or replacements. You may also need to perform regular maintenance checks to ensure the system remains operational, which is an added responsibility compared to a simpler manual system.
The Benefits of Manual Opening Glass Rooflights
For those who prefer a simpler and more traditional option, manual opening glass rooflights might be the right choice. These rooflights are operated by hand, typically with a handle or crank, making them straightforward and reliable.
Cost-Effective Solution
Manual rooflights are more affordable than their electric counterparts. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still allows for natural light and ventilation, manual rooflights can offer great value. This makes them a practical choice for homeowners who want the benefits of rooflights without the higher cost of motorized systems.
Fewer Maintenance Issues
Since manual rooflights don’t have electronic components, there’s less that can go wrong with them. They are typically more durable and require less maintenance over time. This can save you from costly repair bills and the inconvenience of dealing with malfunctioning technology.
Simple and Reliable
Manual rooflights are incredibly straightforward. There’s no learning curve, no smartphone apps, and no worry about sensors failing or motors burning out. You simply open and close them by hand, making them a more traditional, reliable option for those who value simplicity.
The Drawbacks of Manual Opening Glass Rooflights
Of course, manual rooflights also come with some downsides.
Harder to Operate in High Ceilings
If the rooflight is installed in a high-ceilinged room, reaching it to open or close the window could become inconvenient. This is particularly true in spaces like stairwells or vaulted living rooms where manual operation would be impractical without a pole or ladder.
Limited Ventilation Control
Unlike electric models, manual rooflights don’t offer the same level of precision when it comes to ventilation. You won’t be able to control them remotely, nor will they close automatically in the event of rain. This could lead to situations where you’re caught off guard by a sudden storm and unable to close the rooflight in time, leading to water damage.
Both electric and manual opening glass rooflights have their own set of advantages and challenges. While electric rooflights offer unparalleled convenience, precise ventilation control, and luxury appeal, they come with higher costs and maintenance responsibilities. Manual rooflights, on the other hand, provide a cost-effective and reliable solution but may lack the convenience that motorized options provide. Ultimately, the choice between electric & manual opening glass rooflights will depend on your specific needs and preferences for your space.
.
